Better Place Selected as a Partner for Tokyo's Child-Rearing Support Initiative

Tokyo's initiative to promote child-rearing, known as "育業" (Ikugyo), emphasizes the importance of parenting as a critical responsibility rather than just a break from work. In this context, Better Place Inc., headquartered in Shinjuku, Tokyo, has been selected as a cooperative company for this program. The firm specializes in introducing and designing employee pension plans, primarily focusing on the "Hugukumi Corporate Pension Fund."

Commitment to Child-Rearing Support

Better Place has been a long-time advocate for a harmonious balance between work and personal life, deeming it essential for nurturing a supportive environment where employees can thrive. The company aligns its philosophy, which aims to create a hopeful society for child-rearing generations and their children, with the objectives of Tokyo's program. Notably, both male and female employees have achieved a 100% participation rate in the child-rearing initiative.

Future Initiatives Planned

As part of its commitment to this program, Better Place will share successful experiences related to child-rearing. They will interview male employees who have benefited from the initiative, showcasing their personal growth, the skills they acquired, and changes in family dynamics. Furthermore, the efforts and sentiments of the HR team supporting this initiative will also be highlighted. This article will be published on the company’s official Note platform.

Additionally, there are plans to produce short videos that address the realities of "career" and "finances" associated with child-rearing. Discussions featuring experienced dads, financial planners, and career consultants will be released as YouTube shorts. These discussions will cover themes relevant to young parents, such as the skills gained from child-rearing and managing budgets during this phase of life. Audience participation will be encouraged through theme voting and question submissions on social media.

Survey on the Social Value of Child-Rearing

In another upcoming initiative, Better Place will conduct a survey targeting child-rearing families to gauge perceptions related to growth, skills, and changes experienced during this phase. The study will quantify both financial benefits, like life planning and budget improvements, and non-financial rewards, such as strengthened bonds with children and skills acquired during this period. Results from this survey are set to be released as a press statement.

Insights from the President

In a statement addressing the partnership, President Shinji Morimoto expressed pride in being chosen for the initiative. He highlighted how the "Hugukumi Corporate Pension" allows parents to receive financial support during child-rearing leave, aiming to lessen monetary worries and enhance quality family time. He underscored that investing in child-rearing is not merely a social contribution but also an investment in the future, fostering growth and dignity for families.

The Hugukumi Corporate Pension System

Currently, Japan faces challenges such as declining population and an aging society, which lead to chronic labor shortages. Economic disparities influenced by company size and geographic location can significantly impact future asset accumulation and retirement sufficiency. Better Place promotes a corporate pension system helping small to medium-sized businesses and their employees.

The Hugukumi Corporate Pension fund, allowing any employee to join regardless of employment status, has evidenced statistical support for enhancing employee engagement and reducing turnover. Particularly during these times of serious labor shortages, it is well-received as an effective monetary benefit. About 95% of implementing corporations are small businesses with fewer than 300 employees, with a third in welfare, medical, and educational sectors.

Conclusion

Better Place remains dedicated to solving social challenges relating to child-rearing while fostering an environment where employees can thrive in both personal and professional realms. By integrating child-rearing as a pillar of business practice, they aim to support not only their workforce but also society at large in cultivating a supportive and hopeful future for the next generation.

For more details about Better Place and its initiatives, visit Better Place Official Website and their YouTube channel accommodating diverse discussions about child-rearing.